This Week Astrology April 11-17, 2021

This Week in Astrology: April 11 to 17, 2021

April 11 to 17, 2021

This is a strong cycle under which to re-evaluate our relationship to ourselves. With this potent Aries energy, we have the chance to make important changes in our lives. It’s time to make some solid yet realistic plans and to set the stage for reaping the rewards from our new beginnings, as little or big as they may be, in approximately two weeks’ time after the Full Moon occurs.

Aries is the first sign of the zodiac, and thus a New Moon in Aries is especially ripe with opportunity for new beginnings. We might consider acting on a constructive impulse and following a hunch or taking a risk. Aries learns through experience and action, so we might treat ourselves to a little adventure now.

It’s also a good cycle under which to discover the benefits of expressing ourselves with authenticity – expressing ourselves as we are, without putting on airs. We might also find ways to learn how to rely on ourselves and to be happy about doing so – it will go a long way towards finding inner happiness when we know that we can be self-sufficient without blaming others for not helping us out. It’s a time to revitalize ourselves through experiences that break the routine and that involve doing something new and fresh.

The New Moon forms a square to Pluto, suggesting some obstacles to clear as we wrestle with our fears and ambitions. However, Mars, the ruler of Aries is applying to a trine to Jupiter, and both bodies harmonize with the New Moon, encouraging opportunity, courage, resourcefulness, and confidence.

Mars is also applying to a sextile to Venus, and Venus aligns with the New Moon, suggesting that cooperation and diplomacy can help us move forward.

New Moon in Aries Chart: April 11, 2021

This phase of the Moon occurs at 22 degrees and 25 minutes of Aries, affecting people born with personal planets and points at approximately 18 to 26 degrees of the Cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn) most significantly.

I like to see two charts of the New Moon. The one above, using only the major bodies, is useful for identifying chart patterns and core influences and is most important. Adding additional points or bodies is helpful for seeing other or secondary influences and nuances.

Last Week: Full Moon

Last Quarter Moon

The LAST QUARTER MOON occurs on Sunday, April 4, 2021, at 6:02 AM EDT.

On Sunday morning, the Last Quarter Moon is exact, when the Sun in Aries forms a square with the Moon in Capricorn.

The Last Quarter Moon phase points to a crisis of consciousness. After basking in the awareness symbolized by the full light of the Moon at the time of last week’s Full Moon, we disperse our knowledge and come to a point when we need to sort out what works for us–and what doesn’t–in preparation for next week’s New Moon, when something new is born once again.

This is not the best time to start a major project, as the decreasing light of the Moon symbolizes a descent into unconsciousness. It’s time to begin finishing up the details of that which was conceived at the last New Moon. What revelations did you have last week? What did they mean to you? What can be done now?

This phase of the Moon occurs at 14 degrees and 51 minutes of Capricorn square the Sun at 14 degrees and 51 minutes of Aries, affecting people born with personal planets and points at approximately 13 to 17 degrees of the Cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn) most significantly.

Moon Phase Cycle: Bigger Picture

Apr 11, 2021, 10:31 PM, Sun Conjunct Moon
(New Moon)
Apr 20, 2021, 2:59 AM, Sun Square Moon (First Quarter Moon)
Apr 26, 2021, 11:31 PM, Sun Opposition Moon (Full Moon)
May 3, 2021, 3:50 PM, Sun Square Moon (Last Quarter Moon)
May 11, 2021, 3:00 PM, Sun Conjunct Moon (New Moon)

(Times are Eastern)

This week: The Sun is in Aries; Mercury is in Aries; Venus is in Aries until the 14th, after which Venus is in Taurus; Mars is in Gemini.

The Sun is in Aries from March 20 to April 19. In Aries, the Sun is enthusiastic and spontaneous. We are motivated by the desire to conquer. We are more impulsive and have the urge to initiate. Aries is a sign that bounces back quickly–there is little shame with Aries. It is brave and pioneering, and somewhat innocent. We are direct and rather uncomplicated in our needs, but we can also be short-sighted and lack the desire to plan ahead.

Mercury is in Aries from April 3 to 19. When Mercury is in Aries, we are less concerned with objective viewpoints and explanations, and more concerned with reaching a decision…quickly! Our thoughts and ideas are pioneering, and we tend to speak more spontaneously and directly with the planet of communication in bold and assertive Aries.

Venus is in Aries from March 21 to April 14. In Aries, love is spontaneous and direct. The chase is exhilarating to us under this fiery influence. We are bold, fresh, and a little impatient with matters of the heart. We don’t look back with Aries energy. We are not interested in saying sorry or dwelling on the past. It’s a brand new day! It’s time to make things work right now. Aries is known for a love of the chase and the conquest, but Aries love can be longstanding if it remains fresh. Aries is blunt–there’s no sugar-coating, which can sting, but rarely is Aries energy mean or petty. Saying it “like it is” is vital to Aries. Desires are strong and expressed spontaneously, enthusiastically, and directly. Aries prefers to seduce rather than be seduced, to chase rather than be chased.

Venus is in Taurus from April 14 to May 8. In Taurus, Venus is very sensual (naturally), content, and possessive. We seek security and value that which lasts. Our appetite for pleasure is strong. Taurus values the here and the now as well as the world of the five senses. Tangible and physical expressions of love and romance are most important now. Holding on to someone we love is our tendency under Venus in Taurus. The shadow side of this is excessive possessiveness and treating our partners as objects that we own or want to own. On the financial side, Venus in Taurus looks for high-quality, solid, practical, and long-lasting items. Holding on to our possessions is more likely now.

Mars is in Gemini from March 3 to April 23. In Gemini, Mars is considerably more versatile and flexible–and substantially less determined and focused! Our interests become more diversified, possibly to the point of going off on so many tangents that we are scattered and ineffective. It’s an excellent time for strategizing and devising useful tactics to achieve our desires and goals. We’re resourceful and clever, and we know how to use words effectively–possibly using words as weapons! We’re quick on our feet and intelligent with plans and strategy.

Jupiter is in Aquarius from December 19th, 2020, to May 13, 2021, and then from July 28 to December 28, 2021. Read more about the Jupiter in Aquarius transit.

Saturn transits Aquarius from March 21 to July 1, 2020, and from December 17th, 2020, until March 7, 2023. Read about Saturn’s transit of Aquarius.

Uranus is in Taurus. Uranus transits Taurus from May 15, 2018, to November 6, 2018, and then from March 6th, 2019, until 2025/6. We approach money and personal possessions in new ways and learn how to free ourselves from certain material constraints. Innovative ways to make ourselves comfortable emerge. We’re less inhibited about expressing sensuality, self-love, body love, and pampering. We’re challenging what we previously valued during this cycle.

There can be abrupt changes with money, valuables, possessions, and income that lead to a reshuffling of priorities or values. Income might come from non-traditional sources or ventures. We’re bringing progressive ideas to the world of business. New ways of doing business, as well as making, viewing, and handling money are likely. Income and the energy we put into making money can be variable.

Romance & Relationships

Venus is in Aries from March 21 to April 14. In Aries, love is spontaneous and direct. The chase is very exciting to us under this fiery influence. We are bold, fresh, and a little impatient with matters of the heart. We don’t look back with Aries energy. We are not interested in saying sorry or dwelling on the past. It’s a brand new day! It’s time to make things work right now.

Aries is known for a love of the chase and the conquest, but Aries love can be longstanding as long as it remains relatively fresh. Aries is blunt–there’s no sugar-coating with Aries. This can sting, but rarely is Aries energy mean or petty. Saying it “like it is” is vital to Aries. Desires are strong and expressed spontaneously, enthusiastically, and directly. Aries prefers to seduce rather than be seduced, to chase rather than be chased.

Venus is in Taurus from April 14 to May 8. In Taurus, Venus is usually quite content, but can be possessive. We seek security and value that which lasts. Our appetite for pleasure is strong. Taurus values the here and the now as well as the world of the five senses. Tangible and physical expressions of love and romance are most important now.

Holding on to someone we love is our tendency under Venus in Taurus. The shadow side of this is excessive possessiveness and treating our partners as objects that we own or want to own.

This week: On Sunday, the 11th, envy, jealousy, and possessiveness can enter the picture if we let fear drive our behavior.Insecurities about not being “in the know” or fears of having the rug pulled from under our feet in our relationships can be stimulated. It might be difficult to get close to one another under these conditions. However, with self-honesty, it can be a good time to get in touch with our vulnerability. Because this energy occurs so close to a New Moon, it effectively has more power, coloring the week. Watch for making much more of a situation than is warranted.

Venus, the Goddess of Love: Highlights in the Coming Week:

Venus in Aries Romance at the drop of a hat is part and parcel of the cycle you have just begun. Winning the hearts of others can be a challenge you’re eager to accept – and the thrill of the chase might be most of the fun. Is it the pursuit of happiness – or the happiness of pursuit?

Venus in Taurus A love of music, an appreciation for sensual pleasures and others of the finer things in life – such are the signs of the cycle which has begun for you. This is aesthetic and artistic to be sure, but it is also practical and materialistic: you develop a keen appreciation for the value of things, including the money it takes to buy them.

Venus sextile Jupiter April 9-10. This aspect generates a happy, friendly, and optimistic attitude. People are a little more outgoing and sociable. Favors travel, education, and culture. Romantic opportunities. Harmony and good will.

Venus square Pluto April 11. Intense passions, but there’s a hidden agenda. Jealousy and possessiveness are high, in direct proportion to fear of losing partnership. Avoid starting a new relationship at this time, because it can be characterized by these energies.

Venus semi-square Neptune April 19-20. Romantic confusion as well as relationship ups and downs. Self-deceptions may come to light now.

Venus conjunct Uranus April 22. We have a taste for the unusual and the avant garde. We are itching for a change. What makes a person unique is more attractive under this influence. Excitement and newness are valued over permanence in social relationships. Freedom is more important than intimacy just now. We lose our fears of taking risks in love and social situations. Romantic infatuations, gossip, unanticipated opportunities socially or financially. We have a greater need for self-expression, personal freedom, and social excitement.

Venus parallel Uranus April 22-23. We embrace all that is new, unusual, and out-of-the-ordinary with regards to romantic involvements. We lose our fear of taking risks at this time. We are ready to experiment, but not necessarily ready to commit. Peculiar, sudden, or avant garde attractions. This is an exciting but unstable energy. Friendship in love relationships becomes more important.

The Moon & Timing

The Void of Course Moon is the period of time after the Moon has made its last aspect in one sign until the Moon enters a new sign. During the Void of Course Moon periods, it is generally wise to stick to routine rather than to begin new projects. The last aspect the Moon makes before changing signs is indicated here and is indicative of the “outcome” of the matter (whether that is a new project begun before the void period or the answer to a question in Horary Astrology).

Void of Course in Horary Astrology: If you were asking a question and making a chart for the answer, as you do in Horary astrology, it is said that since the Moon is not looking forward to any more aspects in this sign, you would have to say that the answer is not forthcoming; any questions asked at this time would not come to pass. The Moon being Void is one of the Strictures against Judgment in Horary Astrology. The following tables incorporate the modern planets, but some astrologers do not count Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto in void Moon calculations.

The Void-of-Course Moon this Week:

Void-of-course Moon on Monday, April 12th, from 8:06 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to Venus), until the Moon enters Taurus at 1:44 PM EDT.

VOC Moon on Wednesday, April 14th, from 7:59 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a trine to Pluto), until the Moon enters Gemini the next day, Thursday, April 15th, at 2:35 AM EDT.

VOC Moon on Saurday, April 17th, from 11:03 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to the Sun), until the Moon enters Cancer at 3:26 PM EDT.

April 2021:

Void of Course Moon Dates: Table for April 2021

Timing with the Moon – Better Periods this Week for Electing New Initiatives

The Moon is waning this week only until April 11th’s New Moon, which is generally considered unfavorable for new beginnings, with some exceptions. (See Best Time to Start a Business for more details). After the New Moon on the 11th, the Moon is waxing, which is generally considered favorable for new beginnings, also with exceptions.

According to principles of timing with the Moon, a window of opportunity occurs at the Cazimi Moon on Sunday, the 11th, from approximately 10:05 PM to 10:55 PM EDT while the Moon is in Aries. Another window occurs on Monday, April 12th, from approximately 7:45 AM to 8:00 AM EDT, while the Moon is in Aries. It is probably too close to the New Moon to be very useful, however. Another window occurs on Saturday, April 17th, from approximately 12:20 AM to 11:00 AM EDT, while the Moon is in Gemini.

See also the following articles and tables: Timing with the Moon and Opportunity Periods with the Void Moon for times and techniques.

Planetary Stations & Sign Ingresses:

Feb 25,
2021, 8:11 AM Venus enters Pisces
Mar 3, 2021, 10:29 PM Mars enters Gemini
Mar 7, 2021, 4:04 PM Pallas enters Pisces
Mar 15, 2021, 6:26 PM Mercury enters Pisces
Mar 20, 2021, 5:37 AM Sun enters Aries
Mar 21, 2021, 10:16 AM Venus enters Aries
Apr 3, 2021, 11:41 PM Mercury enters Aries
Apr 12, 2021, 6:13 AM Juno Retrograde
Apr 14, 2021, 2:22 PM Venus enters Taurus
Apr 19, 2021, 6:29 AM Mercury enters Taurus
Apr 19, 2021, 4:33 PM Sun enters Taurus
Apr 20, 2021, 3:08 AM Vesta Direct
Apr 23, 2021, 7:49 AM Mars enters Cancer
Apr 27, 2021, 4:02 PM Pluto Retrograde
May 3, 2021, 10:49 PM Mercury enters Gemini
May 8, 2021, 4:51 AM Ceres enters Taurus
May 8, 2021, 10:01 PM Venus enters Gemini
May 13, 2021, 6:36 PM Jupiter enters Pisces
May 20, 2021, 3:37 PM Sun enters Gemini
May 23, 2021, 5:19 AM Saturn Retrograde
May 29, 2021, 6:34 PM Mercury Retrograde

See also: Astrology of Today – an overview of the day (this takes you to my other site, Astrology Cafe).
See also: The Astrology of 2021 – Overview.

Note: Times given are Eastern Time (ET).

This Week’s Calendar

This Week in Astrology Calendar: April 11 to 17, 2021

This Week’s Aspects

Venus square Pluto. Intense passions, but there’s a hidden agenda. Feelings of jealousy and possessiveness run high, in direct proportion to fear of losing partnership. Avoid starting a new relationship at this time, because it can be characterized by these energies. Social interactions may be intense or could provoke intense feelings. Changes in financial status or relationships may occur now. Emotions and issues in a close relationship that have been brewing beneath the surface for quite awhile come to the surface at this time, possibly in a very disruptive way. All of our relationships intensify and we need to be aware of a tendency to act in a rather compulsive, demanding way towards others. This is an “all or nothing” energy. Manipulative behavior, fear of betrayal, and power struggles are possible.

Sun sextile Mars. We are able to creatively solve problems and to instinctively take action when necessary under this influence. Stress is eased as we feel confident about our abilities and our judgment. We are more able to assert ourselves without rubbing people the wrong way.

Mars semi-square Uranus. A tendency to take risks, to feel restless, to act on sudden impulses without considering consequences. There may be changes in work schedules, or life’s circumstances could challenge us in such a way that we need to change our goals or actions.

Sun sextile Jupiter. This transit can bring hopefulness, good will, and increased influence into our lives. It’s favorable for marketing, publishing, and advertising, as well as any self-promotion activities. We may be especially sociable, tolerant, and generous under this influence. Confidence comes from a stronger sense of who we are and the principles we represent. Some form of recognition or distinction is possible now. We are more able to grasp the “big picture” which expands our perspective.

Sun square Pluto. Insubordination and abuse of power. Impatience with rules. Compulsiveness. The urge to get to the bottom of matters is with us, but we are too insistent. Avoid beating a dead horse and attempting to force matters that should naturally take time to unfold. Circumstances now can push us to discover our own power–power that comes from a strong sense of self rather than superficial energy derived from manipulating people into doing what we want them to do. Events may occur now that highlight the need to trust.

Mars trine Jupiter. Decisive action comes naturally now. We possess willpower, verve, and energy that we can direct toward achieving our goals. Success in contracts, negotiations, and business deals comes easily. We want to branch out and take on more challenges. A good time for making new goals or to initiate new projects (all things equal). Optimism and enthusiasm; adventurous spirit. Positive attitudes create winning situations now. Friendly competition. Taking action to better our lives.

Mercury sextile Jupiter. Positive thinking, new insights, and cooperation are themes now. This influence favors short trips, writing, teaching, studying, submitting applications and forms, test taking, and making diagnoses and observations. This is a time when we more readily exercise good judgment, take a more philosophical approach to thinking, and are more open to learning.

Mercury sextile Mars. Mental alertness, enthusiasm, and energetic communications figure now. Quick decisions can be made. We are productive and take “busy-ness” in stride. We are alert and aware, and can easily turn ideas into workable projects.

Mercury square Pluto. The tendency to read between the lines with a negative slant is strong during this transit, and can easily stir up trouble. Suspiciousness, making mountains out of molehills, telling others only what we want them to know are possible themes. Mental anxiety or troubles could manifest now. We should try to avoid forcing our ideas on others and strive to maintain an open mind. Compulsive thinking is possible. On the other hand, this influence can suggest the ability to engage in deep, penetrating communication.

Mars quincunx Pluto. A strong desire to prove ourselves may be at the root of confrontations and bull-headedness at this time. Avoid forcing issues.

Note: Times given in the table/calendar above are Eastern Time (ET).

Daily Trends Calendar

See below for day-by-day forecasts and planets in signs. See also Transit to Transit aspects.

See also: Astrology of Today – an overview of the day – Astrology Cafe – or the Transits for Here and Now chart.

What’s In Store By the Stars – Daily Astrology Trends

(as featured on the site’s main page and in our Daily Trends Calendar)

See also the Astrology Trends Calendar that includes these daily trend overviews and other astrological events such as ingresses, stations, and lunations.

APRIL 11

The Moon spends the day in the sign of Aries, and the New Moon occurs tonight. The New Moon in Aries is a fresh time of new beginnings and initiative. It can prompt us to try something new and innovative, go at it with enthusiasm and confidence, take charge of our lives, and discover our courage. It’s a strong cycle under which to re-evaluate our relationship with ourselves. Because Aries is the first sign of the zodiac, this New Moon is especially ripe with opportunities for a fresh start. We might consider acting on a constructive impulse and following a hunch since Aries learns through experience and action. We might discover the benefits of expressing ourselves with authenticity without putting on airs. We might find ways to learn how to more comfortably and happily rely on ourselves. This lunation is aligned with Venus but square Pluto. Our personal plans and ambitions can feel at odds, causing some tension, but there’s also a strong desire to start fresh and clean the slate. There can be obstacles to clear as we wrestle with our fears and ambitions. However, Mars, the ruler of Aries, is applying to a trine to Jupiter, and both bodies harmonize with the New Moon, encouraging opportunity, courage, resourcefulness, and confidence. Mars is also applying to a sextile to Venus, and Venus aligns with the New Moon, suggesting that cooperation and diplomacy can help us move forward. Today’s Venus-Pluto square can serve to accentuate or stimulate our insecurities, bringing suspicions and jealousies to the surface. Jealous and possessive feelings are in direct proportion to fear of losing something or someone. Our fears of betrayal or being in the dark about a matter are working close to the surface. It can be too easy to trigger sensitive points, but what works us up can be very revealing to those of us on a journey of self-discovery. Social interactions may be intense or could provoke intense feelings.

APRIL 12

The Moon continues its transit of Aries until 1:44 PM EDT when it enters Taurus. The Moon in Aries is spirited, earnest, motivated, and ready for action. We can be indulgent as the Moon aligns with Venus. However, its square to Pluto suggests troubles pulling ourselves away from our current obsessions long enough to truly relax and enjoy ourselves. With the Moon in Taurus from 1:44 PM forward, we’re interested in building on our new ideas or what we already have in place. This Moon is a steady, pleasant influence that helps us pace ourselves. However, we should watch for asserting ourselves defensively, and we should make an extra effort to respect and validate others when expressing what we need and want.

The void Moon occurs from 8:06 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a conjunction to Venus), until the Moon enters Taurus at 1:44 PM EDT.

APRIL 13

The Moon spends the day in Taurus, and we crave comfort and predictability. However, the Moon also aligns with Uranus this morning, and we’d be wise to embrace some change and progress. The need to do our routines just a bit differently can arise. Under this influence, we prefer to do things voluntarily without instruction or direction. It’s best to put few restrictions on projects and keep our options open. Today’s Sun-Mars sextile boosts our confidence and desire for action to pursue our passions. It’s an energizing influence, particularly with enterprising or exciting new projects. We feel we can accomplish a lot and a good sense of timing. Stress eases as we feel confident about our abilities and our judgment. We are more able to assert ourselves without rubbing people the wrong way. We’re also ready to take on a challenge, and we’re competitive in a natural, unforced way.

APRIL 14

The Moon spends the day in Taurus, and Venus enters the sign as well. The Taurus Moon, lasting until early tomorrow, is steady, simple, and contained. Venus will transit Taurus until May 8th. Venus performs well in the sign. In Taurus, Venus is comfortable, sensual, content, and perhaps possessive. We seek security more than usual during this cycle, and we place more value on those things that last. In fact, Venus in Taurus improves and enhances our judgment of value and worth. Our appetite for pleasure is strong. A Mars-Uranus semi-square adds an impatient edge to the day’s energies, however. We may be looking to dominate or assert our independence if we feel trapped, restricted, or otherwise limited. We should watch for impulsive moves but also seek creative, inventive ways to get ahead.

The void Moon occurs from 7:59 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a trine to Pluto), until the Moon enters Gemini tomorrow, Thursday, April 15th, at 2:35 AM EDT.

APRIL 15

The Moon ends its transit of Taurus and enters Gemini at 2:35 AM EDT. The Gemini Moon is curious and communicative. Mars and Jupiter will form a trine early on the 17th, and the Sun just reached their midpoint, infusing these days with enterprising spirit. We’re goal-oriented, active, confident, and feeling ready to rise to a challenge. The Sun formed a sextile to Mars on the 13th, and today, it sextiles Jupiter. There’s much hopefulness and generosity in the air. Confidence comes from a stronger sense of who we are and the principles we represent. It’s a time for engaging with others in happy ways and enjoying opportunities to connect. We may get a “yes” or go-ahead for a project or gain cooperation from others. Some form of recognition or distinction is possible now. We can grasp the “big picture,” which expands our perspective, and we’re feeling more vital and confident.

The void Moon continues until the Moon enters Gemini at 2:35 AM EDT.

APRIL 16

The Sun forms a square to Pluto this morning, and putting our trust in others (or in life/the process) can be difficult. This aspect, possibly through discord, helps us identify areas of over-attachment. We may find it difficult to let go and unwind while this aspect is active. It’s essential to avoid trying to force matters that should naturally take time to unfold. We should also watch for a bit of paranoia or suspicion that works against us. Positively, circumstances now can push us to discover our own power — power that comes from a strong sense of self rather than superficial energy derived from manipulating people into doing what we want them to do. It’s best to aim for self-control now. We might clash with those in authority, or we’re frustrated as our sense of responsibility or fear of loss in our professional or public lives can conflict with our personal plans. We’re heading toward a Mars-Jupiter trine, exact very early tomorrow. Especially as the day advances, our confidence, faith, and enthusiasm soar. Our desire for freedom is just as strong. We are more decisive and enterprising under this influence–it’s a great time to think up an exciting new plan or challenge. Something moves us to take action to better our lives. We possess the willpower, vigor, and energy necessary to achieve our goals. Positive attitudes create winning situations, and we can enjoy friendly competition now. Today’s Gemini Moon encourages us to connect, ask questions, and share our thoughts.

APRIL 17

It’s an astrologically busy day. The Mars-Jupiter trine perfects early today, and later morning, the Moon aligns with Mars and forms a trine to Jupiter, effectively extending its influence a little longer. It’s energetic, can-do energy. Mercury forms a sextile to Jupiter and Mars, and we’re mentally engaged, ready to take on new ideas and share them. We’re enthusiastic. However, it’s complicated, as Mercury forms a square to Pluto, and Mars is moving toward a quincunx to Pluto as well. While Mercury-Jupiter helps us put things into perspective, its square to Pluto can introduce some suspicious and perhaps somewhat paranoid thinking. Transits today might encourage us to reach beyond our usual boundaries. There can be some tension if we insist on trying to find the truth of a matter. These transits encourage resourcefulness, but as zealous as we may be to communicate our message, there can be difficulties getting it through flowingly. We can be especially alert and observant. We may quickly get to the point or a decision/conclusion. With the Mars-Pluto quincunx, feelings of competitiveness or anger can be difficult to manage or understand, especially since they may be displaced or unresolved. It’s best to avoid forcing issues. The Moon continues its transit of connected Gemini until 3:26 PM, after which the Moon is in protective Cancer.

The void Moon occurs from 11:03 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to the Sun), until the Moon enters Cancer at 3:26 PM EDT.

If it’s your birthday today, see our feature, If Today is Your Birthday Forecasts, for a free forecast for the upcoming year.

Moon Signs This Week:

When the Moon is in Aries

We're motivated by a strong desire to start fresh. A gut instinct to begin something new is with us now, as well as the gumption to do so. Our pioneering impulses are strong, and we feel energetic, spontaneous, and enthusiastic. We may also be tactless and impulsive now. Excess energy is best channeled into physical activity.

People can be more self-motivated and also self-focused while the Moon is in Aries. It's a competitive rather than cooperative time. Accidents and tempers flaring are more likely than usual. This period is one of more personal courage.

The Moon in Aries generally favors the following activities: Quick actions that yield immediate results. Undertakings that involve the self and the personality. (Staying power may be lacking). Self-assertion, taking on challenges, beginning short-term projects.

When the Moon is in Taurus

We are motivated by the desire for serenity, security, peace, and comfort. The Moon is at her most sensual and constant in Taurus. Our basic impulses are to relax, resist change, and "stop to smell the roses." Life slows down a little, and we get comfortable. We may also be inclined to stubbornness and materialism under this influence.

While the Moon is in Taurus, people can be emotionally constant but inflexible. It's a time of stronger focus on personal needs and comfort levels, and a period of more common sense and attention to practical matters.

The Moon in Taurus generally favors the following activities: Substantial and material actions that yield solid results. Financial activities, and those involving personal possessions, applying for a loan, beginning a potentially long-term relationship, music, home decor.

When the Moon is in Gemini

Our basic instinct is to communicate, think, and learn under the influence of Moon in Gemini. We are motivated by a desire for variety and by an instinctive curiosity. The Moon in Gemini is light-hearted, breezy, spirited, and curious, but it can also be restless and fickle.

The Moon in Gemini generally favors the following activities: Mental and communicative actions, and more than one activity at once. Reading, learning, letters and emails, errands, writing, teaching, making connections, cafes, light and airy meetings, short trips.

When the Moon is in Cancer

The restlessness of the Gemini Moon gives way to an instinctive need for peace and quiet. A feeling of belonging and safety is what motivates us under this influence. The Moon feels right at home in the sign of Cancer, as it rules the sign. This Moon position has much healing potential. Although insular by nature, our feelings run deep, making it an ideal time to get in touch with what motivates us.

The Moon in Cancer generally favors the following activities: Domestic activities, those that involve awareness of personal needs. Home decor, family get-togethers.

Upcoming Weeks: Calendars

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: April 18 to 24, 2021

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: April 25 to May 1, 2021

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: May 2 to 8, 2021

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: May 9 to 15, 2021

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: May 16 to 22, 2021

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: May 23 to 29, 2021

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: May 30 to June 5, 2021

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: June 6 to 12, 2021

: This Week in Astrology: June 13 to 19, 2021

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: June 20 to 26, 2021

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: June 27 to July 3, 2021

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: July 4 to 10, 2021

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: July 11 to 17, 2021

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: July 18 to 24, 2021

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: July 25 to 31, 2021

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: August 1 to 7, 2021

THIS WEEK’S PLANETARY POSITIONS BY SIGN (General Trends):

Sun in Aries A new sense of self, a more assertive personal style, a more dynamic approach to life: these are the hallmarks of the cycle that begins for you now. Doubts fade into the background, and reserve is more and more a thing of the past. It’s time for action; your destiny is in your hands, rather than set apart. Full speed ahead (“and damn the torpedoes”) is your motto now, for better or for worse!

Mercury in Aries New ideas and an independent or pioneering mental orientation take on more importance in your life at this time. Teaching, learning, communicating, and social contact have a way of outlining new directions in your life now, and there is much activity and involvement with these kinds of issues.

Mars in Gemini Learning, communicating, the exchange of ideas: these are the experiences you crave as a means to make your mark now, as a new phase begins in your life. You’re a person with something to say, and you realize that others have information that is essential to your goals. A time of much mental energy and initiative … perhaps with an element of conflict tossed in for good measure.

Jupiter in Aquarius Innovation, reform, and idealism are your paths to growth and gain now. New, futuristic ideas are part of this, but it’s more than that: putting them into practice is essential because this is much more than empty idealism. A break from the past, a willingness to flaunt convention.

Saturn in Aquarius Ideals are in for a period of testing, as a new phase begins in your life. What are principles worth, unless they are put into practice? That’s an important question for you now. This could mean you may be disappointed by causes you believe in – but if you abandon your principles, you lose.

Uranus in Taurus Practicality and ingenuity combine as powerful drives in your life now that you have begun a new cycle. Taking innovative concepts and making them real and practical is your strong suit; getting stuck in the mud is to be avoided at all costs. Financial savvy, inventiveness, worldly genius.

Neptune in Pisces Things spiritual and psychic take the driver’s seat of your imagination as you begin a new cycle. The fine arts and all manner of fantasies assume a larger-than-life importance. Surrendering to fate, karma, and other powers greater than merely mortal may be seen as the ultimate liberation. If all is Maya (illusion), what is the reality that gives rise to the world of appearances?

Pluto in Capricorn As this new phase dawns for you, the pursuit of social/political power and status has a way of seeming necessary and inevitable – and let nothing stand in its way. It starts out small but has bigger consequences than you’d think. Ambition, responsibility, a place for everyone, and everyone in their place…

The interpretations in this box are from the Day Watch software.

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